Personal defense device

ABSTRACT

A personal defense device includes an electrical stun circuit and electrodes with a structure adapted for use as an impact weapon as well, and further includes a radially disposed flashlight or signal light therewith. The electrical circuitry for the stun apparatus is formed of flexible circuit material with dual circuit paths between each component, for reliability and resistance to damage due to impact forces incurred when the device is used as an impact weapon. A second, normally closed interrupter switch is provided for the stun circuit, with the user of the present device being required to hold the interrupter switch in order to keep the stun circuitry from operating when the master switch is turned on. The end opposite the handle includes a series of impact ribs with cutting blades removably installable thereon, to produce shallow (non-life threatening) cuts in an assailant during an attack.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to manual weapons such asbatons, night sticks, and the like, and in addition relates toelectrically powered stun devices. The present defense device combinesaspects of both of the above devices, as well as other features andfunctions, in a single device for use by police, military, and/or otherswho have need of such a non-lethal weapon or device for crowd controland other purposes.

2. Description of the Related Art

The use of blunt instruments (night sticks, etc.) by police and otherpersonnel for crowd control and for subduing other individuals, has beenknown for generations. Very little has been done over the years toimprove such hand held impact weapons, other than changing the mass ofdifferent portions to impart greater force upon impact. More recently,electronic devices have been developed which transform a relatively lowbattery voltage into a considerably higher voltage, for use as anelectrical stunning device. Such devices are quite effective in subduinga threatening individual, or even a small crowd, as the audible andvisual impression generated by the electrical arc across the contacts,is quite intimidating.

However, such electrical stun devices are generally constructed withrelatively fragile electrical components which cannot withstand a greatdeal of impact force. Such stun devices of the prior art are notintended for any other use, and are used solely as an electricaldischarge device, with the contacts being placed against a potentialattacker or other person who must be subdued. While this may result in athrusting of the device toward the other person, the physical forcesinvolved are nowhere near those to which a blunt impact weapon (nightstick or baton, etc.) would be subjected. The relative fragility of suchelectrical stun weapons has thus resulted in law enforcement officersbeing required to carry a separate baton or night stick in addition tothe electrical stun device, as well as all their other equipment (handgun, cuffs, etc.). The mass and bulk of all this equipment can bedistracting to say the least, and can certainly encumber an officer whenhe must move rapidly. Moreover, the requirement for two similarly shapedelongated weapons or devices (baton and electrical stun prod) can easilyresult in a moment's hesitation or confusion when the officer reachesfor one or the other, in a situation where time is critical.

Accordingly, a need will be seen for a personal defense device whichcombines attributes of the baton with those of an electrical stunningdevice, as well as other attributes and features, in a single device.The present defense device is constructed of a relatively massive andthick walled material, in order to provide the desired mass for use asan impact weapon. Yet, the device has a hollow interior, in order tohouse the electrical storage cells and electrical componentry for theelectrical stun system of the device. Moreover, the present deviceincludes a series of blunt edges disposed along the barrel thereof,which provide greater effectiveness as an impact weapon. These bluntedges may be equipped with relatively shallow cutting edges to produce ableeding cut or wound, if so desired. A flashlight or the like may, alsobe built into the device for greater versatility, with the lightutilizing the same electrical energy source as the stun circuitry. Thepresent defense device also makes use of redundant flex circuitry forreliability and impact damage resistance, as well as providing a novel,normally on interrupter switch for the stun circuit to facilitate use ofthe device by an officer.

A discussion of the related art of which the present inventor, is aware,and its differences and distinctions from the present invention, isprovided below.

U.S. Pat. No. 427,549 issued on May 13, 1890 to John M. Burton, titled“Electric Prod Pole,” describes two embodiments of such a device. Thefirst embodiment of FIG. 1 is a very low voltage device, as it reliesupon an “element B” (taken to be an electrical storage cell), but doesnot include any means of inverting the current for stepping up thevoltage. The second embodiment uses a mechanical generating device,rather than a battery. In any event, the device of the Burton '549 U.S.Patent is quite long and thin, and is not adapted for use as an impactweapon in addition to its electrical prod function.

U.S. Pat. No. 1,158,473 issued on Nov. 2, 1915 to William B. Floyd,titled “Electric Animal Prod,” describes a device similar to that of theBurton '549 U.S. Patent described immediately above. The Floyd prod isalso a relatively long and thin device, with electrical storagebatteries carried in a larger diameter handle portion. No appreciablemass is provided in the distal portion of the device, as it is desiredto make the distal portion as light as possible in such devices tofacilitate maneuverability. This teaches away from the presentinvention, with its relatively massive distal portion to providerelatively large inertial forces for use as an impact weapon, as well asproviding the desired strength and durability for the device.

U.S. Pat. No. 2,176,994 issued on Oct. 24, 1939 to Lorentz A. Hansen etal., titled “Electric Stock Prod,” describes a device utilizing aconventional capacitor and vibrator points for producing an alternatingcurrent from the direct current of the electrical storage batterieswithin the device. A coil having primary and secondary windings is usedto step up the voltage to the desired level. This device is capable ofproducing a continuous array of high voltage discharges, unlike thedevices discussed further above. While the circuitry of the Hansen etal. device is old in the art, such circuitry or its equivalents may beused in the present invention, and the disclosure of such isincorporated herein by reference. However, Hansen et al. do not disclosea relatively massive barrel portion for use as an impact weapon, norother means (blades, etc.) for such impact function.

U.S. Pat No. 2,208,852 issued on Jul. 23, 1940 to Leon P. Mongan, titled“Electric Prodder,” describes a combination device, including a voltagestep-up circuit and light circuit, each powered by the same batterypower source. The electrical voltage step-up circuitry is essentiallythe same as that used by Hansen et al. and disclosed in the '994 U.S.Patent discussed immediately above. This basic circuitry may be usedwith the present invention, as noted above. However, it is desired touse more durable circuitry incorporating flex circuits, redundantwiring, and solid state componentry in the present invention, ratherthan the older mechanical componentry of the Mongan and similar earlierdevices. In any case, Mongan does not provide any means for using hisdevice as an impact weapon, and further teaches away from the presentstun device by providing an open circuit until one of the contacts ispushed in. This is not desirable in an electrical stun protectivedevice, where the visual and audible effects of the electrical arcingare desired to provide a deterrent effect.

U.S. Pat. No. 2,561,122 issued on Jul. 17, 1951 to John Juergens, titled“Livestock Prod,” describes a device having a spring mounted distal endwith a selectively operable light source concentric with the annularelectrical contact probes. The light and electric contacts are operatedby a single, double throw switch. Thus, either the light or theelectrical contacts may be actuated, but not both simultaneously.Moreover, the resiliently mounted distal end teaches away from thepresent rigid, massive structure which may also be used as an impactweapon.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,362,711 issued on Jan. 9, 1968 to LaVerne M. Larsen etal., titled “Night Stick With Electric Shock, Means,” describes a stickhaving external high voltage wiring, as well as the conventional highvoltage contacts extending from the distal end of the stick. The objectof the Larsen et al. stick is to prevent unauthorized persons fromgrasping the stick and pulling it from the grip of the officer or otherperson controlling the stick. Larsen et al. disclose a transistorizedcircuit for controlling electrical power in their night stick, but nomeans of providing alternating current to produce a continuing series ofdischarges, is disclosed. The Larsen et al. night stick requires thatthe actuating switch be closed each time a single electrical pulse isdesired, with the electrical energy dissipating as the switch remainsclosed and voltage stabilizes through the transformer coil.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,625,222 issued on Dec. 7, 1971 to Kunio Shimizu, titled“Baton-Type Arrest Device,” describes a device having a pair ofelectrically conductive needles selectively extendible from one endthereof. No electrical switch is provided except by means of currentflow between the two contacts. Shimizu states that by penetrating theskin, the electrical current administered may be much less to gain thedesired affect than that achieved with skin contact electrodes.Accordingly, no voltage step up is provided by Shimizu. Also, whileShimizu provides an axially placed light in one end of his night stick,the light cannot be directed radially from the side of the device.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,819,108 issued on Jun. 25, 1974 to Richard J. Jordan,titled “Crowd Control Stick,” describes a device bearing someresemblance to the night stick of the Larsen et al. '711 U.S. Patent,discussed further above. The Jordan stick also includes external highvoltage wiring to preclude an unauthorized person from grabbing thestick and taking it from the operator. However, the Jordan stickutilizes a capacitor discharge system for producing the higher voltagesdesired. In any event, the Jordan stick still differs from the presentdevice in that the power supply for the Jordan device must be providedas a separate unit and connected to the stick with a cable. Also, Jordandoes not provide any form of lighting means nor impact enhancing meanswith his stick.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,092,695 issued on May 30, 1978 to Gary A. Henderson etal., titled “Electrical Shocking Device,” describes a relatively smalland light weight device including transistorized circuitry for producinga high voltage, low amperage current capable of producing an electricshock to a person contacting the electrodes. The Henderson et al. deviceis only about ten inches long and less than an inch in diameter, andweighs less than five ounces (col. 3, lines 41-43). Such size and weightis not suitable for use as an impact weapon, night stick, or billy club,whereas the present device provides sufficient mass and size to beuseful as an impact weapon as well. Also, no lighting means is disclosedby Henderson et al., whereas the present device includes a radiallydisposed, selectively operable light therewith.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,424,932 issued on Jan. 10, 1984 to Gerald F. Allen,titled “Electric Shock Prod,” describes a device incorporatingconventional transistorized circuitry, which disclosure is incorporatedherein by reference as yet another means of providing the high voltageoutput required for the operation of the present invention. The Allenprod differs from others in that the extension is a relatively thin andflexible blade. This construction clearly teaches away from the aim ofthe present invention, i.e., to serve as a night stick or impact weaponas well as being useful as an electrical stun device. Allen does notdisclose any form of lighting for his prod device.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,479,171 issued on Oct. 23, 1984 to Gregg B. Mains,titled “Side Arm Baton And Flashlight,” describes a relatively long,cylindrical device having battery storage space therein, a light at oneend thereof, and a radially extended handle with a light switch at theend thereof. No means of producing or dispensing a high voltageelectrical current or shock is provided by Mains for his light and batoncombination.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,486,807 issued on Dec. 4, 1984 to Serge J. Yanez, titled“Non-Lethal Self Defense Device,” describes various embodiments of anelectrical stun apparatus, having different configurations. Yanezincludes a light with his electrical discharge apparatus, but the lightis not intended to provide any real degree of illumination for theperson using the device. Rather, the Yanez light pulses or flashes withthe voltage output, producing a series of flashes to temporarily blindan assailant. Accordingly, no separate switch is provided to operate thelight for the Yanez device; both the light and the electrical voltageoutput (and an audible alarm, when installed) are all controlled by asingle switch, unlike the present invention.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,667,431 issued on May 26, 1987 to Lyle J. Mendicino,titled “Shark Prod,” describes an electrical device which emits arelatively low voltage (around 500 volts) and high amperage (1-5 amps),in comparison with electrical stun devices and cattle prods. This isbecause the diver is also subject to the electrical current,particularly in the salty ocean environment of sharks. Accordingly,Mendicino teaches away from the use of a high voltage, low amperagecurrent as used by the present invention. Moreover, the only lightprovided by Mendicino is an annunciator light to indicate operation ofthe device, and actual actuation of the electrical circuitry isaccomplished by contact with the probes, rather than by means of anoperator controlled switch.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,719,534 issued on Jan. 12, 1988 to Gary S. Ward, titled“Electric Shock Safety Device,” describes a stun type device having atelescoping probe end, with the probe comprising a series of mutuallytelescoping elements. The Ward device is more intended for use byjoggers and bicyclists against threatening dogs and the like. Therelatively thin and extended telescoped probe cannot provide therequired strength for use as an impact weapon (night stick or the like),as provided by the present multipurpose device. Moreover, Ward does notprovide any form of lighting with his device.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,842,277 issued on Jun. 27, 1989 to Eugene F. LaCroix,titled “Multi-Purpose Baton,” describes a device somewhat resembling theflashlight and baton apparatus of the Mains '171 U.S. Patent, with itslaterally disposed hand grip. However, LaCroix also provides a series oflongitudinally disposed electrical conductors along the length of thedevice, similarly to the configuration of the device of the Jordan '108U.S. Patent discussed further above. LaCroix also provides a light, butit is only intended to temporarily blind a potential assailant, ratherthan to provide any useful illumination for the user of the device. Thelateral extension of the LaCroix device does not facilitate its use asan impact weapon, as provided by the generally cylindrical configurationof the present device.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,467,247 issued on Nov. 14, 1995 to Richard N. de Anda etal., titled “Electronic Stunning Apparatus,”describes a device havingconcealed electrical contacts which are not exposed until the device ispressed against another body. The de Anda et al. device is relativelysmall, being about the size of a flashlight. It is thus not suitable foruse as an impact weapon, as provided by the present invention. The deAnda et al. device more closely resembles the relatively small devicedisclosed in the '695 U.S. Patent to Henderson et al., than it does thepresent a personal defense device. Moreover, de Anda et al. do notdisclose any form of lighting with their device, and the concealedelectrical contacts cannot provide a visible display of electricaldischarge to dissuade a potential attacker.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,654,867 issued on Aug. 5, 1997 to John H. Murray, titled“Immobilization Weapon,” describes a hand held device with a pair ofelongated flexible electrodes and a set of electrodes which can beballistically fired at another person in order to deliver an electricalshock remotely. The Murray device has a square section, pistol gripconfiguration with a relatively short upper portion for firing theballistically delivered electrodes. The two elongated electrodesextending from the device, extend from the top of the device above thepistol grip portion. The physical configuration of the Murray devicedoes not enable it to be used as an impact weapon, e.g., night stick,etc., as can the present personal defense device.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,962,806 issued on Oct. 5, 1999 to Peter G. Coakley etal., titled “Non-Lethal Projectile For Delivering An Electric Shock To ALiving Target,” describes a series of embodiments for ballisticallylaunching an independent device capable of delivering an electric shockto a living target. The shocking device of the Coakley et al. apparatusis not connected to the firing weapon in any way, as by wires, etc. asused in some projectile firing devices of the prior art. Thus, theelectrical device cannot be controlled once it leaves the weapon. Also,while Coakley et al. disclose baton and flashlight embodiments of theirprojectile and delivery device, they do not provide a device having allof the features of the present invention, e.g., ribs for greater impact,low blades which may be attached to the ribs for imparting minor cuts,or radially disposed lighting means.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,986,872 issued on Nov. 16, 1999 to Eugene M. Chaput,titled “Multi-Component Electric Stunning Umbrella,” describes a devicehaving electrical storage cell and electronic component means in thehandle, with electrical wiring extending up the relatively narrow shaftthereof to a distal tip having a pair of stunning electrodes therein. Amore or less conventional umbrella is extendible from the tip,permitting the device to be used as an umbrella as desired. A hardplastic cover may be installed over the folded umbrella, as desired.Chaput states that this hard plastic cover permits the device to be usedas a baton or impact weapon, but this would require that the plasticsleeve be installed over the folded umbrella whenever the potential needof an impact weapon was foreseen. Moreover, while Chaput providesadditional electrodes along the sides of the impact sleeve, he does notprovide any additional ribs or blades to increase the effectiveness ofthe device as an impact weapon, as provided by the present personaldefense device.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,022,120 issued on Feb. 8, 2000 to Hung-Yi Chang, titled“Lighting Device For A Stun Gun,” describes a separate flashlight typedevice with the light beam oriented axially relative to the remainder ofthe device, rather than radially, as in the lighting means of thepresent device. The Chang assembly cannot be used as an impact weapon,as it is relatively short and compact, with the operating switcheslocated, at the approximate midpoints along the opposite sides thereof.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,091,597 issued on Jul. 18, 2000 to Ming-Chen Lin, titled“Structure Of An Electric Shock Device,” describes a device having aseries of selectively extendible telescoping sections. The sections eachhave electrodes extending along their opposite sides, but no tipelectrodes are provided. Also, while the Lin device includes aflashlight, the light is oriented parallel to the length of the device,rather than being radially disposed to the length of the device.Moreover, the hollow telescoping tubes of the Lin device do not appearto provide sufficient strength for use as an impact weapon (baton,etc.), and Lin makes no disclosure or claim of such function for hisdevice.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,256,916 issued on Jul. 10, 2001 to Thomas V. McNulty,titled “Stun Gun,” describes a device having a short, pistol gripconfiguration with a trapezoidal head extending therefrom. The twoelectrical contacts are on adjacent faces of the trapezoid, angularlyseparated from one another. McNulty states that this causes thetrapezoidal shape to compress the muscle tissue of the subject beforeboth contacts are in contact with the skin, thus providing a greaterelectric shock effect and muscle contraction. The McNulty device moreclosely resembles the device of the '867 U.S. Patent to Murray,discussed further above, than it does the present invention. McNultyalso provides a ballistically fired device having electrical stunningcontacts with his device. However, The relatively short length of theMcNulty stun device is not suitable for use as an impact weapon orbaton, and no lighting means is provided by McNulty for his device.

U.S. Pat. No. D-255,139 issued on May 27, 1980 to James A. Smith, titled“Electric Baton For Law Enforcement Personnel,”illustrates a designcomprising a relatively short, generally cylindrical device. Anelectrical switch is apparently provided at about the midpoint of thedevice, which further precludes its use as an impact weapon or baton. Noadditional impact ribs, blades, or lighting means are apparent in theSmith design.

U.S. Pat. No. D-273,216 issued on Mar. 27, 1984 to Harold S. Sinrod,titled “Multi-Purpose Defense Baton,” illustrates various embodiments ofa design comprising a relatively narrow, elongated cylindrical shapewith a hand guard between a handle portion and longer distal portion. Noelectrical function of any sort is apparent in the Sinrod design.

U.S. Pat. No. D-289,313 issued on Apr. 14, 1987 to More Shy, titled“Hand-Held Electric Prod,” illustrates a design having a generallycylindrical shape with a hand guard adjacent one end. No disclosure ismade of any function as an impact weapon, nor is any lighting meansshown for the design. The Shy design more closely resembles the designof the '216 U.S. Design Patent to Sinrod, discussed above, than it doesthe present invention.

U.S. Pat. No. D-329,510 issued on Sep. 15, 1992 to Hsiung Lin, tiled“Hand-Held Electric Prod,” illustrates a design comprising a relativelyshort, generally cylindrical device having a hand guard between a handleportion and distal portion. The Lin device thus more closely resemblesthe device of the de Anda et al. '247 U.S. Patent, discussed furtherabove, than it does the present personal defense device. While nostatement of such is made in the Lin Design Patent, it appears that theelectrodes are disposed along the opposite sides of the distal endportion of the device, rather than from the end, as in the presentdevice.

U.S. Pat. No. D-351,640 issued on Oct. 18, 1994 to Richard N. de Anda etal., titled “Electronic Stunning Weapon,”illustrates a design apparentlyidentical to the device of the '247 U.S. Utility Patent issued to thesame inventors and filed on even date, discussed further above. The samepoints of difference: raised in the discussion of the de Anda et al.'247 U.S. Utility Patent, are seen to apply here as well.

Finally, British Patent Publication No. 2,196,728 published on May 5,1988 to Chun Chang Kuo, titled “Flash Light,” describes an apparatuswhich is actually a combination of several devices. The Kuo apparatusincludes an axial flashlight, as well as selectively extendibleelectrical probes for the device to serve as a stun weapon if sodesired. Moreover, the Kuo apparatus includes an audible warning system,e.g., a buzzer or siren, and the flashlight may be used as a visualwarning device as well. However, Kuo makes no statement or claim thathis apparatus is suitable for use as an impact weapon (baton, etc.). Thelight is disposed in the distal end of the device, and it isquestionable whether the light; as well as other componentry, wouldstand up to the forces resulting from use of the device as an impactweapon.

None of the above inventions and patents, taken either singularly or incombination, is seen to describe the instant invention as claimed. Thusa personal defense device solving the aforementioned problems isdesired.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A hand held personal defense device includes a number off differentfeatures to provide a versatile defense weapon for law enforcement andother personnel who have need of such a device. The present devicecomprises an elongate, generally cylindrical tube including electricalcontacts extending from one end thereof and conventional electricalcircuitry therein for stepping up electrical cell voltage to a highlevel for use as a stunning weapon and deterrent.

The structure of the device is formed of a high strength syntheticcomposite material for optimum durability, and includes a series of ribsalong the exterior surface for greater effect as an impact weapon. Oneor more blades may be attached to the ribs in order to produce shallowcuts upon the body of a person when struck by the present device. Thepresent device also includes a small but powerful light source emittingits light radially from the body of the device, for effectiveness whenthe device is raised for use as an impact weapon. The electricalcircuitry of the present device is adapted to provide great durabilityand resistance to damage under high impact forces, as will likely occurfrom time to time with the use of the device.

Accordingly, it is a principal object of the invention to provide apersonal defense device providing multiple functions of an electricalstun weapon, impact weapon or baton, and light source in a singledevice.

It is another object of the invention to provide such a, defense devicecomprising a durable, high strength tubular shell having a series ofribs extending therefrom to provide greater damage when the device isused as an impact weapon, and which may include a series of bladesremovably secured to the ribs to produce shallow cuts due to impact fromthe device.

It is a further object of the invention to provide redundant flexibleelectrical circuitry within the device, for greater durability andresistance to damage due to forces developed when the device is used asan impact weapon.

Still another object of the invention is to provide an. interrupterswitch for the high voltage electrical stunning circuit, whichinterrupter switch is normally closed to require the user of the deviceto hold the switch in order to disable the electrical stunningcircuitry.

It is an object of the invention to provide improved elements andarrangements thereof for the purposes described which is inexpensive,dependable and fully effective in accomplishing its intended purposes.

These and other objects of the present invention will become readilyapparent upon further review of the following specification anddrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a personal defense device according tothe present invention.

FIG. 2 is a fragmented longitudinal section view of the rearward orhandle portion of the present personal defense device, showing the flexcircuitry and various internal details thereof.

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the forward portion of thepresent personal defense device, showing the impact ribs and removableattachment of blades and blade guards thereto.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating the dual path electricalcircuitry provided for reliability in the present personal defensedevice.

Similar reference characters denote corresponding features consistentlythroughout the attached drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The present invention is a personal defense device, combining featuresof an electrical stun weapon or device with an impact weapon (baton,night stick, or the like) and a small, high intensity light. Thesefeatures have not been combined into a single device, prior to thedevelopment of the present invention. In addition, the present defensedevice incorporates extremely durable, redundant electrical circuitry,in order to provide the desired reliability and durability for theelectrical circuitry when employed with an impact weapon.

FIG. 1 of the drawings provides a perspective view of the presentpersonal defense device 10, illustrating its general configuration. Thepersonal defense device 10 generally comprises an elongated, generallycylindrical, hollow tube 12, having a handle end 14 and a distalelectrical discharge end 16 opposite the handle end 14. The tube 12 maybe formed of a variety of materials, but as the present device 10 isused as an impact weapon as well as an electrically discharging stunningweapon, the material used is preferably a hard, rigid, somewhat densematerial, capable of withstanding impact forces when used as a policebaton, club, or the like. Due to the high electrical voltages developedby the electrical circuitry of the present invention, the materialpreferably has a very high dielectric property, at least greater thanthat of air, in order to preclude electrical arcing across or throughthe material. A composite material formed by a thermosetting resin in asynthetic fiber matrix, e.g., Ultra*comp® UC-200, made by Tri-StarPlastics Corp. of Shrewsbury, Mass. has been found to meet theserequirements. However, other suitable materials may be substituted asdesired.

The handle end 14 may be equipped with a removable cap 18 for accessingelectrical storage cells (batteries) and/or other internal componentry.A wrist strap 20 or the like may be secured to the device 10 by thehandle end cap 18, if so desired. The opposite electrical discharge oroutput end 16 may be equipped with a similar cap 22, with the electricalstunning electrodes 24 and 26 extending therefrom. Preferably, the caps18 and 22 are provided with seals or other suitable means to provide awaterproof fit.

Two concentric sleeves 28 and 30 may be installed about the tube 12 inthe approximate medial area thereof, or more precisely, somewhat closerto the handle portion 14 of the assembly. These sleeves 28 and 30 securethe switches controlling the high voltage circuitry for the presentinvention, as shown pictorially in FIG. 2 and schematically in FIG. 4 ofthe drawings. A master switch 32 is provided to turn the high voltagestun circuitry on and off, with a second, momentary contact switch 34being provided to enable and disable the electrical stun circuitry asdesired.

The master switch 32 is preferably a rocker type switch, with oppositeends of the switch either actuating or deactivating the high voltagecircuit alternately as they are pushed. The secondary switch 34 ispreferably normally on or closed, and is wired in series with the masterswitch 32 and/or high voltage circuit. The operator of the presentpersonal defense device 10 normally actuates the electrical circuitry byturning the master switch 32 on when it appears that the need forelectrical stun capability may be needed. The operator then holds thesecondary switch 34 to keep it open, thus keeping the high.voltagecircuitry in a deactivated condition. However, when the operatorreleases the secondary switch 34, the high voltage system is activated.The operator thus need not continually hold a switch in order to keepthe high voltage circuitry activated. These switches 32 and 34 aresecured within passages through the tube 12 wall by the sleeves 28 and30, and are preferably encased in rubber or the like to provide awaterproof assembly and preclude electrical arcing from the switches.

FIG. 2 provides a pictorial view of the voltage step-up and othercircuitry within the tube 12 of the device 10, while FIG. 4 provides aschematic view of the circuitry. The electrical circuitry used with thepresent invention is flexible (or “flex”) circuitry, insofar aspossible. Flex circuitry, rather than using conventional insulatedwires, utilizes thin, flexible plastic sheet material with conductivematerial imprinted or otherwise formed thereon, in a similar manner tothat used in the formation of conventional printed circuit boards andthe like. However, rather than using rigid board-like material, thecircuitry of the present invention utilizes a thin, flexible plasticcentral board or sheet 36 (shown with its lower left corner flexedupwardly, in FIG. 2) which contains most of the various electroniccomponents 38 which operate the high voltage system of the presentinvention. A series of flex circuit lines, described specificallyfurther below and in FIG. 4, extend from the “mother board” 36 to thevarious electronic components of the present invention. Such flexcircuitry is conventional, and is used in the aviation and automotiveindustries, to provide good reliability and durability in harshenvironments where electronics are exposed to vibration and otherforces.

The voltage step-up and lighting systems of the present invention arepowered by a pair of nine volt electrical cells (batteries) 40, wired inparallel, as shown in FIG. 4. The cells or batteries 40 are preferablywrapped in an insulating sleeve 42 of Neoprene or other material, inorder to keep them warmer and provide more efficient operation in coldertemperatures.

The various electrical connectors extending between components arepreferably formed of thin, flat flex circuitry, as noted further above.In addition, all of the wiring or circuitry is redundant, with eachconnector element carrying two electrical paths, designated as paths aand b, in FIG. 4 of the drawings. For example, the lines 44 between thebatteries 40 and the main control circuit are indicated as circuits 44 aand 44 b in FIG. 4. The lines 46 extending from the control circuitboard or sheet 36 to the master and secondary switches 32 and 34 aredesignated as separate, parallel circuits 46 a and 46 b in FIG. 4. (Itwill be noted that the pictorial view of FIG. 2 illustrates these lines46 as returning separately to the control sheet 36, while they are wiredin series between the batteries 40 and the control board or sheet 36. Anumber of different circuit routings are possible, but the principleremains the same.) The electrical conductors 48 and 50 extending betweenthe control board 36 and the respective electrodes 24 and 26 (with acapacitor 52 illustrated in the circuit therewith in FIG. 4), areindicated as conductors 48 a, 48 b, 50 a, and 50 b in FIG. 4. Finally,the lighting circuit 54 is indicated by conductor paths 54 a and 54 b inFIG. 4. The provision of parallel, dual circuit paths for the electricalcircuitry of the present invention provides a significant improvement inreliability and durability over conventional single wire circuit runsused in other electrical stun devices of the prior art, and enables thepresent invention to be used as an impact weapon without damage to theelectrical and electronic elements thereof.

A number of different electrical or electronic circuits may be used toprovide the voltage step-up required to provide the desired high voltageto the two electrodes 24 and 26 from the two nine volt batteries 40.Older technology may make use of vibrator points to develop thealternating (actually pulsating dc) current required to drive thetransformers to step up the voltage to the level desired. The presentinvention may make use of such mechanical point systems, but preferablyutilizes conventional solid state oscillator circuitry to produce thevariable voltage required to drive a step-up transformer to arrive atthe proper voltage. Any such systems are conventional, and may beincorporated herein.

In addition to the above circuitry for providing the required highvoltage to the electrodes 24 and 26, the present personal defense device10 may also include a light source (e.g., small flashlight or signallight, etc.) if so desired. FIGS. 2 and 4 also illustrate such alighting system incorporated with the present invention. A small, brightlight source 56 is located in a housing within the tube 12, and iscontrolled by a switch 58. The switch 58 may be a single pole type, asshown schematically in FIG. 4 of the drawings. However, all of theswitches 32, 34, and 58 may also be conventional double pole types forgreater redundancy and reliability, if so desired. A fiberoptic(acrylic) rod or bundle 60 extends from the light source 56 to an output62 which projects radially from the tube 12. Different lenses 64 (e.g.,infrared, ultraviolet, etc.) may be installed between the light source56 and fiberoptic line 60, as desired.

The present personal defense device 10 is a multi-purpose tool, and isuseful as an impact weapon (baton, club, etc.) as well| as an electricalstunning device and light, as noted further above. FIGS. 1 and 3(particularly FIG. 3) illustrate the external configuration of thepresent device 10 for use as an impact weapon. At least one (andpreferably a series of) hard, rigid, elongate impact rib(s)s 66project(s) radially from the exterior of the tube 12 and extend(s)therealong, from a point near the electrode or electrical discharge endcap 22, back toward the handle portion 14 of the tube 12, stopping shortof the two switch securing sleeves 28 and 30. The ribs 66 are preferablyformed of the same material, e.g., Ultra*comp UC-200, as the remainderof the exterior of the device 10, but other materials may be substitutedas desired, so long as they are electrically non-conductive and providethe other desired properties of hardness, strength, durability, etc. Theribs 66 may be disposed along only one side of the impact end 16 of thetube 12, in order to allow the operator to use the opposite smooth,non-ribbed side or surface if less force is required.

FIG. 3 illustrates a further embodiment of the invention, in which theribs 66 are provided with a series of mounting holes 68 for theremovable attachment of a shallow, radially disposed cutting blade 70 toeach rib 66. The blades 70 are equipped with, a like series ofattachment holes 72, through which a series of bolts 74 or the like maybe installed. The bolts may be retained by threading the rib holes 68,inserts within the rib holes 68, conventional nuts 76 on the oppositesides of the blades, etc.

The blades 70 are preferably formed of corrosion resistant steel, fortoughness, durability, and ease of maintenance. Other materials may beused as desired. Each blade 70 has a relatively shallow, widely angled,but sharp, cutting edge therealong. The object of the blades 70 is notto inflict serious arterial bleeding through a deep cut, but rather tobreak the skin of an assailant to produce some bleeding as a secondaryeffect while primarily, inflicting a certain amount of pain, in order todistract and slow an assailant. Blade guards 78 formed of heat shrinktape or other suitable material, may be applied to the blades 70 inorder to protect persons handling the present device 10. Such relativelythin plastic tape 78 may be left in place at all times, including duringuse of the present device 10, as the tape is easily cut through by theblades 70 upon impact.

In conclusion, the present personal defense device provides asignificant advance in personal defense technology for law enforcementofficers and others who have need to confront aggressive persons withphysical force. The present device combines features of an electricalstun device, an impact device (baton, etc.), an edged weapon by means ofits optional shallow blades, and a light source for illumination orsignalling, in a single device. This greatly simplifies the carriage ofequipment by law enforcement personnel, eliminating the need for aseparate electrical stunning device along with a flashlight and baton.

Having a single, versatile tool or piece of equipment to handle all ofthe above functions, greatly facilitates the reactions of the officer ina hazardous situation, as he or she need not make a decision as to whichtool or equipment to access, and then reach for that specific item ofequipment. The present defense device provides all the equipment a lawenforcement officer is likely to require, except a firearm, in a singledevice.

The use of dual, redundant, flex electrical circuitry in the presentdevice provides a significant improvement in reliability for suchdevices, and enables the present defense device to be utilized as animpact or edged weapon where it is subject to considerable shock forces,without risk of damage to internal components. Preferably, mechanicalconnectors are used to secure electrical components to one another, inorder to avoid potential problems with solder joints and the likebecoming brittle and separating due to flexing. The present personaldefense device thus provides all of the deterrent means which wouldnormally be desired by a law enforcement officer in hand to handsituations in a single device, which will find great favor among lawenforcement officers and others who have need of such versatility in asingle device.

It is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to theembodiment described above, but encompasses any and all embodimentswithin the scope of the following claims.

I claim:
 1. A personal defense device, comprising: an elongated,electrically non-conducting, hard, rigid, generally cylindrical, hollowtube having a handle end and an electrical discharge end opposite saidhandle end; first and second electrodes extending from said electricaldischarge end of said tube; electrical circuitry disposed within saidtube, for increasing voltage to a high level for selectively producingan electrical discharge of stunning intensity from said electrodes; andat least one electrically non-conducting, rigid, elongate impact ribprojecting from said tube and extending from a point adjacent saidelectrical discharge end of said tube toward said handle end of saidtube.
 2. The personal defense device according to claim 1, furtherincluding a shallow metal blade removably attached to said at least oneimpact rib and projecting radially therefrom.
 3. The personal defensedevice according to claim 1, further including lighting means disposedin said tube for providing illumination, said lighting means furtherhaving means for projecting light radially from said tube.
 4. Thepersonal defense device according to claim 1, wherein said electricalcircuitry comprises flex circuitry.
 5. The personal defense deviceaccording to claim 1, wherein said electrical circuitry comprisesredundant dual circuits.
 6. The personal defense device according toclaim 1, further including: a master switch controlling said electricalcircuitry for selectively producing the electrical discharge; and anormally closed, momentary contact switch disposed in series with saidelectrical circuitry, whereby release of said momentary contact switchactivates said electrical circuitry for selectively producing theelectrical discharge, when said master switch is on.
 7. The personaldefense device according to claim 1, wherein said tube is formed of asynthetic composite material.
 8. A personal defense device, comprising:an elongated, electrically non-conducting, hard, rigid, generallycylindrical, hollow tube having a handle end and an electrical dischargeend opposite said handle end; first and second electrodes extending fromsaid electrical discharge end of said tube; and redundant, dual flexelectrical circuitry disposed within said tube, for increasing voltageto a high level for selectively producing an electrical discharge ofstunning intensity from said electrodes.
 9. The personal defense deviceaccording to claim 8, further, including at least one electricallynon-conducting, rigid, elongate impact rib projecting from said tube andextending from a point adjacent said electrical discharge end of saidtube toward said handle end of said tube.
 10. The personal defensedevice according to claim 9, further including a shallow metal bladeremovably attached to said at least one impact rib and projectingradially therefrom.
 11. The personal defense device according to claim8, further including lighting means disposed in said tube for providingillumination, said lighting means further having means for projectinglight radially from said tube.
 12. The personal defense device accordingto claim 8, further including: a master switch controlling saidelectrical circuitry for selectively producing the electrical discharge;and a normally closed, momentary contact switch disposed in series withsaid electrical circuitry, whereby release of said momentary contactswitch activates said electrical circuitry for selectively producing theelectrical discharge, when said master switch is on.
 13. The personaldefense device according to claim 8, wherein said tube is formed of asynthetic composite material.
 14. A personal defense device, comprising:an elongated, electrically non-conducting, hard, rigid, generallycylindrical, hollow tube having a handle end and an electrical dischargeend opposite said handle end; first and second electrodes extending fromsaid electrical discharge end of said tube; electrical circuitrydisposed within said tube, for increasing voltage to a high level forselectively producing an electrical discharge of stunning intensity fromsaid electrodes; a master switch controlling said electrical circuitryselectively producing the electrical discharge; and a normally closed,momentary contact switch disposed in series with said electricalcircuitry, whereby release of said momentary contact switch activatessaid electrical circuitry for selectively producing the electricaldischarge, when said master switch is on.
 15. The personal defensedevice according to claim 14, further including at least oneelectrically non-conducting, rigid, elongate impact rib projecting fromsaid tube and extending from a point adjacent said electrical dischargeend of said tube toward said handle end of said tube.
 16. The personaldefense device according to claim 15, further including a shallow metalblade removably attached to said at least one impact rib and projectingradially therefrom.
 17. The personal defense device according to claim14, further including lighting means disposed in said tube for providingillumination, said lighting means further having means for projectinglight radially from said tube.
 18. The personal defense device accordingto claim 14, wherein said electrical circuitry comprises flex circuitry.19. The personal defense device according to claim 14, wherein saidelectrical circuitry comprises redundant dual circuits.
 20. The personaldefense device according to claim 14, wherein said tube is formed of asynthetic composite material.